Teenagers are hard to buy for because their tastes change fast and they would rather choose themselves. A gift card is a safe answer. A gift that shows you noticed what they care about tends to mean more. The groups below help you start from what they already do.
For their room
- A bedside lamp with a warm light
- LED string lights (keep them off bedding) or a small desk lamp
- A desk organizer for chargers and pens
- A blanket or a pillow in a color they like
For their phone and music
- A power bank with a recognized safety certification mark, so the phone lasts through the day. Remind them not to charge it under a pillow or on the bed
- Over-ear headphones or a phone stand
- A long charging cable that reaches the bed
Electronics are easy to get wrong. Ask a parent or sibling which phone and accessories they already have.
For creative teens
- A sketchbook and a set of fine-tip pens
- An instant camera and a few packs of film
- A beginner’s sewing or embroidery kit
- A blank journal for writing, without printed prompts
For the kitchen
- A cookbook for beginners
- A set of baking tools
- A cooking class they can take with a friend
For time with friends
- A board game or card game for groups
- Tickets for two to a concert, a game or a movie
- A handmade coupon for a pizza night at home with their friends
Gifts that teach a skill
Teenagers are starting to do things for themselves, and a gift can help:
- A basic toolkit for their first bike repairs or furniture that comes in a box
- A small repair kit with needle, thread and patches
- A beginner’s guide and the supplies for a hobby they mentioned, such as photography, baking or drawing
- A class in something they want to learn, booked with a friend
Stocking-sized ideas for teens
Lip balm, fun socks, a phone grip, a set of gel pens, a small notebook, a favorite snack from another country, a keychain for their first house key.
Clothes
A hoodie, a scarf or a beanie is a safe choice when you know their style. Include a gift receipt so they can exchange the size.
When a gift card is the right choice
If you don’t see the teenager often, a gift card for a store they like is a thoughtful gift, not a lazy one. Put it inside a card with a few lines about something they did this year.
Ask before buying
Teenagers usually know exactly what they want. Asking them for three ideas, and choosing one, keeps an element of surprise while avoiding a gift that sits unused.
